Airborne: World War II Paratroopers in Combat

Airborne warfare reached its peak during World War II - the only war in which the potential gains of using airborne tactics ever justified the great costs, both material and human. The revolutionary developments in tactics and equipment meant that whole divisions could now be inserted behind enemy lines to initiate surprise attacks. However, the risks taken by these brave soldiers, both Allied and Axis, cannot be overstated, with horrific losses suffered by both sides.

This book gives an overview of airborne warfare during World War II, looking not at the German, American and British paratroopers involved in the war, covering their recruitment, training, tactics and battle conduct, and the battles they fought. Covering Operation Mercury - the German assault on the island of Crete in 1941 and the first strategic use of airborne forces in history - the tragic British attack on Arnhem in 1944 and the American airborne assault near Utah Beach on D-Day, this book traces the evolution of airborne warfare throughout the war and gives an insight into the experiences of the brave men who dropped into battle.

Peter D. Antill has a BA in International Relations and an MSc in Strategic Studies. He worked as a Research Assistant in the Department of Defence Management and Security Analysis at Cranfield from 1998 to 2002.

Dr Stephen Badsey is a specialist on the history of military ideas and the role of the media in warfare and has written and published widely making frequent contributions as a historian for television and other media.

Tim Moreman has lectured in the Department of War Studies at King's College London, has written a number of books and articles, and has been a historical adviser for the BBC.

The late Bruce Quarrie's principal interest was in World War II, his definitive Encyclopedia of the German Army was translated and published in German. Len Deighton described him as 'one of our most meticulous and well-informed historians'.

Gordon L. Rottman served in the 5th Special Forces Group in Vietnam in 1969-70 and subsequently in airborne infantry, long-range patrol and intelligence assignments. He is now a full-time author.

Carl Smith is a specialist writer of many years' experience and has worked for several popular military magazines and written a number of books.